A popular American influencer is facing a fine after posting a video of himself grabbing a crocodile in Far North Queensland.

Mike Holston, known on social media as @therealtarzann, has gained an audience of more than 15 million followers for his wildlife videos. 

He is currently in Australia, where he has found himself in hot water.

Yesterday, he posted a video jumping out of a boat in the waters near Cape York and approaching a sunbathing freshwater crocodile.

He wrestled the two-metre reptile out of the water and held it up by its throat for the camera.

“Take a look,” he said, with a gash on his arm that was bleeding. 

“You got a good piece of my arm there.

“This is what dreams are made of. Ever since a kid, I wanted to come to Australia and just look at crocodiles.”

The Department of Environment said it is taking the matter seriously and is investigating.

Holston, who once said Steve Irwin was his idol growing up, could face a $3000 fine.